Germany suspends arms exports to Israel over Gaza plan

Berlin pauses arms sales to Israel that could be used in Gaza, signaling a major shift amid mounting global pressure.

Germany suspends arms exports to Israel over Gaza City plan

Germany’s cabinet decided on Friday to suspend exports of military equipment that could be used in Gaza. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the measure would stay in place until further notice. The move comes as Israel plans a Gaza City operation after a long war with Hamas and as European and Arab voices condemn the idea of expanding fighting. The decision follows warnings from the Israeli military that an expanded campaign could worsen civilian suffering and complicate hostage negotiations.

International reaction was swift. European Union leaders urged caution and a halt to actions that could deepen humanitarian crises, while the United States signaled some disagreement with Israel over tactics but said shared objectives remain. Berlin’s stance puts Germany at odds with its status as a major arms supplier to Israel and marks a notable shift in its long running support for security cooperation with Jerusalem. Germany accounted for a large portion of Israel�s major arms imports through 2019 to 2023, including naval equipment. Netanyahu has framed the Gaza move as a step toward ending Hamas rule, while opponents say it risks broader violence and hostage danger.

The policy shift shows how European defense diplomacy is being recalibrated under pressure to prevent civilian catastrophes. Berlin is signaling that weapons deals will be weighed against humanitarian and strategic risks, a stance that could reshape how other partners balance security interests with human rights concerns. The tension between alliance loyalty and public accountability is likely to grow as hostages remain in Gaza and ceasefire talks stall. The episode also tests transatlantic coordination; Washington has not abandoned its goals but is publicly nuanced about methods. Expect more moves from both Berlin and Brussels as domestic politics and international expectations collide with a protracted conflict.

Highlights

The next steps will reveal how far Europe is willing to push defense policy in pursuit of humanitarian goals.